As USA Volleyball coaches, ensuring athlete safety is our top priority. With 70% of sports-related traumatic brain injuries (TBIs) occurring in athletes under 18, concussion awareness is crucial, even in a less contact-intensive sport like volleyball.
Recognizing gender differences in concussions is vital. Girls often face a higher concussion risk and may experience more severe, long-lasting symptoms, particularly affecting mental health. Therefore, we must tailor our approach accordingly.
The CDC’s HEADS UP program offers valuable resources for concussion education. Research shows that awareness and communication increase when coaches distribute these materials and encourage parent-child discussions about concussions. Make sharing these resources a priority and follow up on these crucial conversations.
To effectively manage concussion risks, remember the “ACE” approach:
A – Awareness: Implement comprehensive strategies that include regular training on symptom recognition and reporting. This is key to ensuring athlete safety. USA Volleyball’s coaching education partner, the National Federation of High School Learning Center, offers a free course titled “Concussion in Sports.”
C – Communication: Foster an environment where athletes feel safe reporting potential concussions. Create a culture of open dialogue about concussion symptoms and concerns. Review the Athlete Fact Sheet (PDF) with your team.
E – Evaluation: Establish and adhere to clear return-to-play protocols, always deferring to medical professionals for proper evaluation and management of concussions. Familiarize yourself with the Coaches Fact Sheet.
Stay informed about the latest concussion research and advocate for safety-first policies. This includes proper equipment use, rule enforcement, and immediate removal from play when concussions are suspected. By prioritizing safety and following the ACE approach, we protect our athletes and promote a culture of well-being in volleyball at all levels.